Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 05/13/2010

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CASE #3 CONSIDER `SELF-SERVE' CANOE AND KAYAK ACCESS FOR SUNFISH LAKE PARK By: Mark Riverblood, Parks Supervisor Background: In March of 2009, City Council authorized the construction of Sunfish Lake Park, and trail along Sunfish Lake Boulevard. The project was funded by the Park Trust Fund and Trail Fund respectively, in anot-to-exceed amounts of $314,198 and $101,217. As the Commission may recall, the bid amounts came in favorable due to the economic climate of the construction industry. Further, the City was able to route approximately $40,000 to the 2010 General Fund for those construction elements that were performed by maintenance staff, and pay back the Tax Increment Financing District $30,000 for the purchase of .the land within the approved amount above. Observations: In addition to the total project (park and trail), coming in under the construction estimate, the City was also able to save small amounts in many different categories by performing changes in the field -and no authorized contingencies were needed. In summary, the park portion of the project came in $30,000 under the approved amount at $284,198. The purpose of this case is to consider recommending to City Council the purchase of public canoes and kayaks and attendant security system for the existing canoe rack installed in the park. In April of this year, staff applied for $2,000 in Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation grant monies for this purpose -but was not successful in receiving funding.. That application is attached, which also explains the self-serve system, the public purpose and value of introducing paddling as an added recreational opportunity for residents. Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends funding this proposal at anot-to-exceed amount of $13,000, which is less than half of the amount that the park project came in `under budget.' Commission Action: Motion to recommend to City Council's Finance Committee funding of the self-serve canoe and kayak system at anot-to-exceed amount of $13,000 from the Park Trust Fund. Reviewed by: P&R: 5/13/10